 Looks like Winter weather has FINALLY decided to skip working hard on a Thursday, so we're able to get an Insider's Pick out for you. White Rhone wines are getting fewer and farther between these days. The red grapes are easier to grow and a bit more profitable, so many new or replanted vineyards are converting mostly if not wholly away from the white varieties. The nice silver lining is that when you do find a standout, they tend to be really well done and usually have some nicely mature vines that stay consistent from vintage to vintage. Clos du Caillou is an historic estate with most of their Cotes du Rhone vineyards pressed right against the borders of Chateauneuf, and also are connected to the diversity of the region, making a broad spectrum of both red and white wines. The vines here are of very similar age to the ones making their white Chateauneuf, as well as a similar blend, with this being tank aged instead of barrique aged. The blend of White Grenache, Viognier and Clairette (some vintages will see a splash of Roussanne from their Chateauneuf vineyards) is classic, fresh and floral with a bit of unctuous texture. Initial flowery hits from the Viognier turn towards zesty green citrus and apple notes, with lots of natural weight on the palate at first, then picking up the citrusy minerality to give a juicy mouthwatering finish that lingers impressively. A wine begging for foods to help elevate, like Spring salads or delicate fish dishes.
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 With such cold dreary forecasts ahead of us the next few days, it probably serves us well to have something open that brings a little warmth and comfort to the customers. So much of Chile's wine history has been with Bordeaux influence, especially around the city of Santiago and the Maipe Valley. More recent developments are going further and further afield and exploring different styles and climates, as well as rediscovering some older ones. Itata is on the Southern coast of Chile near the city of Conception, and brings about a sort of Sonoma-esque coastal vibe. Cooling ocean winds and fog, tall pines in the craggy hills, all makes for some temperate growing conditions. Though it was first established in the 1500s by Spanish conquistadores, it has been largely overlooked with all the money and attention focused around Santiago. The last few decades have brought a new wave of winemakers to the region, looking to take advantage of the older forgotten vineyards and establish a less invasive style of farming/winemaking in these remote nooks and crannies. This Syrah is a perfect example, taking up a very cool character Northern Rhone style for an excellent price. Savory, smoky aromas at first with some black cherry skin and peppery meats that get a little warmer with some time in the glass. The palate has lots of energy and bright acidity behind the smoky flavors and lightly dusty tannins, decently weighty but not thick or chewy, with a lingering peppery finish. This is begging for a savory stew or lentil soup, something meat-like if not actually meaty.
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The Best of the Best.We offering free tastings on these wines in the store every Thursday and Friday, and a 10% discount off the retail price through the duration of the day. Come on by and give them a try! Archives
February 2025
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